We The People

The Beach

The north western coast of Gili Air, Indonesia

What’s the deal?

Gili Air is one of three tiny islands off Lombok, Indonesia and it’s island life just as nature intended. Pristine white sand, impressive coral reefs (complete with turtles casually swimming by) and no motorised vehicles whatsoever. Just sandy trails, beaches, palm trees and locals getting around on horse and cart; things couldn’t get more tranquil.

Beaches make up the entire circumference of the island, but the north western side is the best spot for swimming and snorkeling.

How to get there

From Bali, you can jump on a fast ferry from the pier at Padang Bai on the South East edge of the island. The journey takes around two hours, stopping off at Lombok, Gili T, Gili Meno then finally Gili Air.

Alternatively you can fly directly to Lombok and then take the short 30 minute trip by boat to any of the Gili Islands if you want to avoid two hours on choppy seas.

The low-down

Thankfully Gili Air is still relatively undeveloped – although like so many popular destinations things are a-changing – which means on the western coast there’s just a few beachfront cafes selling local food, cocktails and fresh coconuts. Take a good book and enjoy the legitimate peace and quiet.

Read part one of The Beach Series here.